Like many people, you’ve maybe wondered what the difference is between hair conditioners and hair masks. Should we be using both or just one? This blog post will look at what each product is, its benefits and how to get the most from each one.
What Is The Difference Between A Conditioner And A Hair Mask?
Put simply, you apply a hair conditioner immediately after washing your hair with shampoo. It’s something you should do each and every time. Do not apply conditioner to the roots or your scalp, just the strands. Leave the conditioner in your damp hair for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. You will find most hair conditioners have a creamy, soft texture that softens your hair almost instantly.
On the other hand, hair masks contain more potent formulations designed to hydrate and nourish your hair. Hair mask formulations include different nourishing ingredients and require several uses before the results appear. Examples of hair masks’ super ingredients include:
- Coconut oil
- Green tea
- Avocado oil (squashed avocado and olive oil makes a great homemade hair mask)
- Coconut water
- Honey
- Shea butter
- Argan oil
The texture of a hair mask is thicker than a hair conditioner, but not as glutinous. Unlike a conditioner, a hair mask should be applied along the entire length of your hair, from the roots to the tips.
Are Both Essential For My Hair?
The short answer is yes. When you use both a conditioner and a hair mask, you’re giving your hair the best of both worlds. The conditioner works every day to give your hair an instant boost of hydration and brings it to life. Meanwhile, the hair mask’s nourishing ingredients work their magic from the inside with each weekly session. There are different types of hair masks that have different functions, such as repairing, strengthening and restoring your hair. Masking will also provide protection from sun and heat exposure. Therefore, if you want your strands to look fabulous every day and remain stronger for even longer, use both a conditioner and regular masking.
Mistakes To Avoid When Using Hair Masks
Hair masks effectively hydrate, moisturise and nourish your hair but only if you use them correctly. If you’re new to hair masks, you’ll benefit from this part of the blog post. You will learn the common mistakes you should avoid so that you get the most from your hair mask.
Mistake #1 Misunderstanding Your Hair’s Needs
If you’ve been masking for a while but are still seeing no change in your hair, perhaps it’s a case of the doctor treating the wrong ailment. If your hair is limp and broken due to excessive colouring, pick a protein-based mask. Your hair is made of protein, and so a protein mask will help restore your hair’s building blocks.
Mistake #2 Using Your Mask Incorrectly
Always use your mask after shampoo. The shampoo opens up your hair’s cuticle, allowing the easy absorption of moisture from the mask and taking the goodness to the core of your hair. Apply your mask starting midway along your hair’s length and massage it through your hair towards the ends. Avoid getting the mask on your scalp or roots.
Mistake #3 Applying The Mask Too Frequently Or Too Rarely
Not knowing how often to apply your hair mask can lead to inconsistent results. Greasy hair can result from applications of more than twice a week if you have straight hair. However, if your hair is curly, your hair needs all the moisture it can get. You can even afford to mask daily to give your hair the hydration it craves.
Protein masks should only be used once a week for no longer than 30 minutes. Too much protein from the mask results in a thin coating around the shaft, making your hair brittle.
Endnote And Next Steps
Keeping your hair healthy with a good wash and conditioning routine will eliminate the most common causes of hair damage, but don’t forget to give your hair that little extra boost with a nourishing hair mask. As this blog post has shown, you need both products for your hair to be at its best. The conditioner provides the daily moisture requirements to keep your hair nice and soft, while the mask nourishes your hair over time from within.
If you have concerns about any aspect of your hair, Vinci Hair Clinic is here to help. Get in touch with us and book your free, no-obligation consultation today!
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